5 Ways to Deal With Depo-Provera Side Effects

1. Be Prepared for Irregular Menstrual Bleeding

Depo-Provera, also known as medroxyprogesterone acetate, is a highly effective form of birth control that contains synthetic progesterone. Given every 3 months as an injection into the patient's muscle, this contraceptive works by preventing the release of an egg (ovulation) and by making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant in the woman's uterine wall. One of the most common side effects of Depo-Provera is irregular menstrual bleeding. Women taking Depo-Provera may notice that they have longer or shorter than normal menstrual periods or that their periods are heavier or lighter than normal. Some women may also find that their menstrual periods start earlier or later than expected. During the first few months of Depo-Provera use, women will likely also notice irregular bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods. To deal with irregular periods, women on Depo-Provera should always have feminine protection with them at all times in case unexpected bleeding occurs. If a woman experiences very heavy or prolonged bleeding while taking Depo-Provera, she may want to contact her doctor for guidance.

2. Cope with Digestive Issues

Women using Depo-Provera may also experience various digestive problems. Women may experience nausea, bloating or stomach cramping. To effectively deal with nausea, eat a bland diet consisting of foods like bananas, rice, applesauce and toast (BRAT diet). Pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can help alleviate stomach cramping. A warm compress, heating pad or hot water bottle can also help to eliminate cramps. If a woman using Depo-Provera feels bloated, she should try to limit her salt intake and remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If any of these side effects appear severe, the woman should contact her personal physician.

3. Soothe Tender Breasts

Many women using Depo-Provera experience sore and tender breasts. To relieve sore or tender breasts, wear a well-supportive, yet comfortable, bra. If tender breasts seem especially bothersome at night, wear a bra while sleeping. Ice packs or cold compresses placed on the breasts can also help to alleviate pain. Pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also help.

4. Relieve a Headache

Because of the synthetic progesterone contained in Depo-Provera, some women using the drug will also experience dizziness or headache. To relieve these symptoms, over the counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can make the woman feel better. Plenty of rest and relaxation can also aid to relieve dizziness and headache. However, if a woman using Depo-Provera has a severe headache or dizziness that won't go away, she should contact her doctor at once.

5. Minimize Depo-Provera Related Weight Gain

Up to 70 percent of women that use Depo-Provera experience weight gain. Most of these women can gain 5 to 10 pounds or more after one year of use of Depo-Provera. To minimize this weight gain, women on Depo-Provera should eat a healthy diet low in fat and calories. They also should keep up with or begin a regular exercise plan that consists of 30 minutes of activity daily. If a woman feels concerned about her weight gain due to her Depo-Provera use, she should talk to her doctor.